2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 1998 Acura RL
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Acura RL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Acura RL would be higher. At 3,472 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Acura RL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK (215 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1998 Acura RL. (205 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1998 Acura RL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Acura RL weights approximately 260 kg more than 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Because 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Acura RL, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK (311 Nm) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Acura RL. (304 Nm). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Acura RL.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 1998 Acura RL | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Acura |
| Model | SLK | RL |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3196 cc | 3472 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 205 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 311 Nm | 304 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 90 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.6:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1415 kg | 1675 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 5000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2920 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 50 L |
